IFAW Statement on Congress’ Passage of Keystone XL Bill

Jeff Flocken, North America Regional Director for the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW), issued the following statement regarding the passage of S.1. the “Keystone XL Pipeline Act”:

“Building Keystone XL means sacrificing our global climate, wildlife, and public health for the benefit of foreign oil corporations. Congress has made a huge mistake in rushing approval of this dangerous project.

Tar sands mining is already causing devastating effects for woodland caribou, black bears, migratory birds, fish, and other wildlife in Canada’s boreal forests. We cannot afford the added risk of another pipeline disaster, considering the damage it could cause to places like Nebraska’s Sand Hills region. Just two weeks ago, another pipeline spilled tens of thousands of gallons of oil into Montana’s pristine Yellowstone River, illustrating the danger posed by these projects.

The United States should prioritize clean energy, not giveaways to one of the world’s most polluting industries.

We urge President Obama to use his veto authority to halt this measure in its tracks, and also to deny the final permit for the Keystone XL tar sands pipeline.”

About IFAW

Founded in 1969, IFAW saves animals in crisis around the world. With projects in more than 40 countries, IFAW rescues individual animals, works to prevent cruelty to animals, and advocates for the protection of wildlife and habitats. For more information, visit www.ifaw.org. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter.